The project would help strengthen Russia’s economic ties with Vietnam, of which investment remains weak point, said Igor Khovaev, Minister-Counselor of the Russian Embassy, as quoted by the Quan Doi Nhan Dan (People's Army).
Rusal opened an office in Vietnam last month. The country is home to an enormous energy potential and rich bauxite reserves.
Khovaev also said Russia would not stop at investment in Vietnam's bauxite reserves, but also looked to build power plants and develop the aluminum industry in the Central Highlands, which is rich in bauxite ores.
He stressed that investment in Vietnam was at the top of the agenda for his country.
“The Russian embassy is actively working with companies and conglomerates to boost investment in Vietnam,” Khovaev said.
Bilateral trade between Vietnam and Russia stood at $200 million in the first five months of 2007.
Khovaev also voiced the Russian government’s expectation that consultation rounds with Vietnam on Russia’s bid to enter the World Trade Organization would wrap up soon. He said the two friends were consulting, not negotiating, and the countries mutually understood each other.
“Consultations are what leaders from the two countries have agreed upon, instead of negotiations, on Russia’s WTO membership,” said Khovaev. “These consultation rounds play a significant role in solving technical issues in economic and trade relations between the two countries. As a strategic partner, Vietnam would fully understand what Russia is interested in.”
豫公网安备41010502003434号